Assertion Journal

In response to Robby's journal on "I Am the Greatest"

I disagree with Robby that Muhammad Ali's pride detracts from his accomplishments and from who he is as a person. I actually think that his confidence and belief in himself helped him to become who he is. Also, Ali's boasts never exceeded his actual ability. He was at least one of the greatest, he did win the gold medal he said he would, and he went on to win three heavyweight championships.

Boxing is a sport that is tough both physically and mentally, and it really can't be compared to baseball. I'm not saying that baseball doesn't require stamina or skill, but it is completely different from boxing. Muhammad Ali's strategy in many of his more famous fights depended on his ability to take a lot of punches. In order to endure that and still win you have to believe that you are the best, while having any doubts in yourself will result in defeat. In order to be the best, you have to know you are the best.

Yeah, Muhammad Ali was loud and arrogant, but these qualities weren't severe character defects. They were just part of who he was, and he was a great boxer. He has been through a lot, and the only reason he wasn't broken not only boxing but by Parkinson's Disease is because of his belief in himself. Muhammad Ali might talk a lot of trash, but he can back up everything he says. Call him what you will, but Muhammad Ali is still The Greatest.